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Type: Prelims Only

  • Inter-State Council has been reconstituted

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Inter-State Council and its functioning

    Why in the News?

    The Inter-State Council has been reconstituted with Prime Minister as its chairman, all CMs and 9 Union ministers as members and 13 Union ministers as permanent invitees.

    About the Inter-State Council (ISC):

    Details
    Formation
    • Established on May 28, 1990, by a presidential order following the Sarkaria Commission (1988) recommendations.
    • Headquartered in New Delhi.
    • The Council has met 12 times since its formation in 1990.
    Constitutional Provisions
    • Not a permanent body nor a constitutional body;
    • Created by the President under Article 263 of the Constitution.
    Powers and Functions
    • Investigate and discuss subjects of common interest.
    • Make recommendations for better coordination on subjects.
    • Deliberate on matters referred by the Chairman.
    Composition
    • PM as Chairman.
    • Chief Ministers of all states and union territories with legislative assemblies.
    • Lieutenant Governors/Administrators of union territories without assemblies.
    • 6 Union Cabinet Ministers nominated by the Prime Minister.
    • Governors of states under President’s rule.

    Standing Committee:

    • Union Home Minister as Chairman.
    • 5 Union Cabinet Ministers and 9 Chief Ministers.

     

    PYQ:

    [2013] Which of the following bodies is/are not mentioned in the Indian Constitution?

    1. National Development Council

    2. Planning Commission

    3. Zonal Councils

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • Tribes in News

    Gotti Koya Tribals

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Gotti Koya Tribals

    Why in the News?

    The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes has asked the Union Home Ministry and the states of Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha to submit a detailed report on the condition of Gotti Koya tribals.

    Why did the NCST urge the Centre and States?

    • An estimated 50,000 Gotti Koya tribals were displaced due to Left-Wing Extremism and now live in 248 settlements across Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Maharashtra.
    • Reports indicate that Telangana has reclaimed land from internally displaced persons (IDPs) in 75 settlements, impacting the tribals’ livelihoods and increasing their vulnerability.

    About the Gotti Koya Tribe:

    Details
    Location 
    • Multi-racial and multi-lingual communities found in the forests, plains, and valleys on both sides of the Godavari River in AP, Telangana, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha.
    • Migrated from Bastar, northern India.
    Society and Culture
    • Koya language (Koyi) is a Dravidian language related to Gondi and influenced by Telugu.
    • Most speak Gondi or Telugu alongside Koyi.
    • Divided into five subdivisions (gotrams).
      • Patrilineal and patrilocal family structure, with a focus on monogamous, nuclear family.
    • Worship their own ethnic religion alongside Hindu gods, with Mother Earth being a significant deity.
    • Burial or cremation of the dead, with the erection of menhirs in memory.
    • Pastoralists and shifting cultivators (Podu), are now engaged in settled cultivation, animal husbandry, and seasonal forest collection.
      • Grow Jowar, Ragi, Bajra, and other millets.
      • Maintain community funds and grain banks for food security.
    Festivals
    • Vijji Pandum (Seeds charming festival) and KondalaKolupu (Festival to appease hill deities).
    • Perform the Permakok (Bison horn dance) during festivals and marriages.
    • Sammakka Saralamma Jatra, held once every two years on the full moon day of Magha Masam (January/February) at Medaram village, Warangal district.
    Challenges Faced
    • Many fled to Andhra Pradesh (now Telangana) in the mid-2000s due to violent conflicts between Maoist insurgents and Salwa Judum (Govt backed tribal militia).
    • Salwa Judum was later banned by the Supreme Court of India in 2011.

    PYQ:

    [2014] Every year, a month long ecologically important campaign/festival is held during which certain communities/tribes plant saplings of fruit-bearing trees. Which of the following are such communities/ tribes?

    (a) Bhutia and Lepcha
    (b) Gond and Korku
    (c) Irula and Toda
    (d) Sahariya and Agariya

  • International Space Agencies – Missions and Discoveries

    LignoSat: the First Wooden Satellite launched into space

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: LignoSat Satellite

    Lignosat: the First Wooden Satellite launched into space

    Why in the News?

    The world’s first wood-panelled satellite, LignoSat, was recently launched to test the use of timber as a renewable material for future space missions.

    About LignoSat Satellite:

    Details
    Purpose To test the potential of wood as a renewable building material in space applications.
    Developed By Kyoto University and Sumitomo Forestry of Japan.
    Launch Details Launched on November 5 aboard a SpaceX Dragon cargo capsule.
    Mission Duration Spend a month at the International Space Station (ISS) before being deployed into Earth’s orbit for six months to test its performance.
    Size and Weight Measures 4 inches (10 cm) per side and weighs 900 grams.
    Material Built with magnolia wood panels, using a traditional Japanese technique that avoids screws and glue.
    Construction Combines wood-panel casings with aluminium structures and standard electronic components.
    Durability Testing Designed to withstand extreme temperature fluctuations in space, ranging from -100 to 100 degrees Celsius every 45 minutes.

    LignoSat as a Renewable Solution for Space Construction

    • Reduced Environmental Impact: Unlike conventional aluminium-based satellites, LignoSat reduces pollutants like aluminium oxides that damage the ozone layer upon re-entry.
    • Sustainable Material: Wood is a renewable, lightweight, and corrosion-resistant material in space, as there is no water or oxygen to accelerate degradation.
    • Long-Term Vision: The satellite could pave the way for sustainable space construction, with future plans to use wood in building structures on the Moon and Mars.
    • Mitigating Orbital Congestion: As satellite constellations grow, sustainable materials like wood could help reduce space debris and pollution in Earth’s orbit.

    PYQ:

    [2016] With reference to ‘AstroSat’, the astronomical observatory launched by India, which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. Other than USA and Russia, India is the only country to have launched a similar observatory into space.

    2. AstroSat is a 2000 kg satellite placed in an orbit at 1650 km above the surface of the Earth.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

  • Health Sector – UHC, National Health Policy, Family Planning, Health Insurance, etc.

    APOBEC (Apolipoprotein B mRNA Editing Catalytic Polypeptide)

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: APOBEC

    Why in the News?

    Since smallpox was eradicated in 1980, research on mpox has highlighted how the virus mutates, particularly through the APOBEC family of immune system proteins.

    About APOBEC

    • APOBEC (Apolipoprotein B mRNA Editing Enzyme, Catalytic Polypeptide-Like) is a family of proteins involved in regulating the genetic material of viruses and cells.
    • They are part of the human immune system and play a crucial role in protecting against viral infections by editing RNA and DNA.
    • APOBEC consists of several enzymes, with APOBEC1, APOBEC3 family members being the most well-known.
    • There are 11 identified members of the APOBEC family, primarily named APOBEC1, APOBEC2, and APOBEC3, with APOBEC3 being the most studied due to its antiviral properties.
    • It has a Zinc Finger Domain, which is essential for their enzymatic activity and ability to bind to DNA or RNA.
    • APOBEC proteins are found in various tissues and cells, but they are notably present in the immune cells such as T-cells, B-cells, and macrophages.
    • Role in Immune Defense:
      • APOBEC proteins contribute to the innate immune response by editing viral genomes, preventing the replication of viruses, and reducing the ability of viruses to establish infections.
      • They are known to be cytosine deaminases, which means they modify cytosine bases in nucleic acids to uracil, leading to mutations that can prevent successful viral replication.
      • APOBEC proteins target the genomes of several viruses, including retroviruses (like HIV), hepatitis B virus, and poxviruses (such as mpox and smallpox).

    Functions of APOBEC Proteins:

    • DNA Editing: APOBEC proteins can deaminate cytosine bases in single-stranded DNA, converting them into uracil, which can lead to mutations.
      • This introduces errors in the viral genome and inhibits replication.
    • RNA Editing: Some APOBEC proteins, like APOBEC1, are involved in editing mRNA. In the case of APOBEC1, it helps edit the mRNA of apolipoprotein B, which is crucial for lipid metabolism.
    • Antiviral Activity: APOBEC3 proteins, particularly APOBEC3G, inhibit the replication of HIV and other retroviruses by editing viral DNA during reverse transcription.
      • They also reduce the replication of poxviruses (such as mpox), making them crucial in controlling infections caused by these viruses.
    • Cytosine Deamination in Viral RNA: APOBEC proteins induce mutations in viral RNA, reducing the virus’s ability to efficiently replicate and spread. This helps prevent viral evolution and adaptation.
    • Inhibition of Viral Resistance: By causing mutations in viral genomes, APOBEC proteins prevent viruses from easily developing resistance to the immune system’s defenses.
    • Interaction with Other Immune Mechanisms: APOBEC proteins work in concert with other immune mechanisms, like interferons, to enhance antiviral responses and limit infections.

    PYQ:

    [2016]  In the context of the developments in Bioinformatics, the term ‘transcriptome’, sometimes seen in the news, refers to:

    (a) a range of enzymes used in genome editing

    (b) the full range of mRNA molecules expressed by an organism

    (c) the description of the mechanism of gene expression

    (d) a mechanism of genetic mutations taking place in cells

  • Horticulture, Floriculture, Commercial crops, Bamboo Production – MIDH, NFSM-CC, etc.

    Asia Tea Alliance not in favor of GM Tea

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Asia Tea Alliance, Tea Cultivation in India

    Why in the News?

    • The Asia Tea Alliance (ATA) resolved to reject Genetically Modified (GM) Tea in response to climate challenges affecting global tea production.
      • With India’s tea production down by 10% this year due to climate change, certain companies have advocated for GM tea.

    About Asia Tea Alliance (ATA)

    • Founded: April 19, 2019, in Guizhou, China.
    • 5 Members: India, China, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and Japan.
    • Goals: Enhance tea trade, cultural exchange, and globally promote tea.

    About Indian Tea Industry: 

    • India is the second-largest tea producer and largest black tea producer after China, and also the fourth-largest tea exporter worldwide.
    • India is the largest consumer of black tea, accounting for 18% of global tea consumption.
    • The Indian tea industry directly employs 1.16 million workers, with an equal number indirectly associated.
    • It is governed by the Tea Board of India and under Union Government control by an Act of Parliament.
    • Geographical conditions:
      • Northeast India (including Assam), north Bengal (such as Darjeeling, Terai and the Dooars), and the Nilgiris in south India.
      • Tropical and subtropical climates, with regions concentrated in Asia, Africa, and South America favours tea cultivation.
      • It requires cool to warm temperatures (15–23°C) with at least 5 hours of sunlight daily; annual rainfall should be 150-200 cm.
    • Darjeeling Tea known as the “Champagne of teas,” for its aroma was the first to GI tag in 2004–05.

    PYQ:

    [2020] “The crop is subtropical in nature. A hard frost is injurious to it. It requires at least 210 frost-free days and 50 to 100 centimeters of rainfall for its growth. A light well-drained soil capable of retaining moisture is ideally suited for the cultivation of the crop.” Which one of the following is that crop?

    (a) Cotton

    (b) Jute

    (c) Sugarcane

    (d) Tea

  • Innovations in Biotechnology and Medical Sciences

    Caterpillar fungus

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Caterpillar fungus

    Why in the News?

    Recent research by scientists at the University of Nottingham’s has found that a chemical produced by a fungus growing on caterpillars may slow cancer cell growth.

    What is Caterpillar fungus?

    • Cordyceps militaris, also known as caterpillar fungus, is a parasitic fungus that primarily infects caterpillars and other insects.
    • Found in the Himalayan region and parts of Asia, it is valued in traditional Asian medicine for its health benefits, including immune support, anti-inflammatory properties, and energy enhancement.
    • It is considered a delicacy in some Asian cultures and has long been used for its purported wellness effects.

    How it can slow down growth of cancer cells?

    • Researchers from the University of Nottingham’s School of Pharmacy have identified cordycepin, a compound produced by Cordyceps militaris, as potentially effective in slowing cancer cell growth.
    • Cordycepin works by interrupting overactive cell growth signals in cancer cells, which prevents rapid multiplication and allows for more targeted treatment.
    • This approach may be less harmful to healthy tissues compared to conventional cancer treatments, offering a promising direction for targeted cancer therapies.

    Other observations and significance of the species

    • In addition to its traditional uses, Cordyceps militaris is significant for its role in ecological balance, helping control insect populations in forest ecosystems.
    • Advances in research have enabled large-scale studies on cordycepin’s effects, with future studies focusing on derivatives of cordycepin for potentially enhanced anti-cancer properties.
    • The fungus illustrates how natural compounds can contribute to sustainable medical practices, offering less toxic alternatives for disease treatment, especially in oncology.

    PYQ:

    [2019] Recently, there was a growing awareness in our country about the importance of Himalayan nettle (Girardinia diversifolia) because it is found to be a sustainable source of:

    (a) Anti-malarial drug

    (b) Biodiesel

    (c) Pulp for paper industry

    (d) Textile fibre

  • Health Sector – UHC, National Health Policy, Family Planning, Health Insurance, etc.

    IDF working on new guidelines to treat Type 2 Diabetes

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: International Diabetes Federation, Type 2 Diabetes

    Why in the News?

    • The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) is developing new Type 2 diabetes treatment guidelines in collaboration with a global expert panel.
      • These guidelines aim to integrate scientific evidence and clinical practice, adapted to the healthcare environment of specific countries.

    What is Type 2 Diabetes?

    • Type 2 Diabetes is a chronic condition where the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough, leading to high blood sugar levels.
    • It is commonly linked to obesity, physical inactivity and poor diet.
    • Symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and blurred vision.
    • Treatment involves lifestyle changes like a healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight management.
      • Medications such as Metformin help regulate blood sugar levels, and in some cases, insulin therapy may be required.

    About International Diabetes Federation (IDF):

    Details
    About
    • Established in 1950; Brussels, Belgium;
    • Members: Over 230 national diabetes associations in 170 countries and territories.
    • Collaborations: Partners with global organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and others for global health initiatives.
    • Led by an elected President with the support of a Board of Directors from member countries.
    • Regional offices: Operates regional offices in Africa, Europe, North America, Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East.
    Aims and Objectives
    • To improve the care and lives of people with diabetes and promote its prevention worldwide.
    • Advocacy, research, education, and raising awareness to reduce the global burden of diabetes.
    Key Programs
    • World Diabetes Day (November 14)
    • Global Diabetes Atlas
    • Educational initiatives for healthcare professionals
    Diabetes Types Covered
    • Type 1 Diabetes: Primarily affects children and young adults, where the body’s immune system attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
    • Type 2 Diabetes: The most common form, often linked to lifestyle factors and obesity. It involves insulin resistance and eventually pancreas dysfunction.
    • Gestational Diabetes: A type of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy and increases the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.
    • Other Forms: Covers genetic forms, latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA), and MODY (Maturity Onset Diabetes of the Young).
  • Historical and Archaeological Findings in News

    In news: Bidar Fort

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Bidar Fort

    Bidar Fort

    Why in the News?

    • The Karnataka Waqf Board has identified 17 monuments within the historic Bidar Fort as its own property.
      • These include the 16-Khamba Mosque (Sixteen Pillar Mosque) and 14 tombs of Bahmani rulers and their family members, including Ahmed Shah-IV, Allauddin, Hassan Khan, and others.

    About Bidar Fort:

    • It is situated in Bidar City on the northern plateau of Karnataka, India.
    • The fort’s history dates back over 500 years, beginning with the Western Chalukya dynasty.
    • Sultan Ahmed Shah Wali of the Bahmani dynasty made Bidar his capital in 1430 and renovated it into a strong citadel.
    • Architectural Features:
      • Constructed from trap rock with stone and mortar used for walls.
      • Notable for its Islamic and Persian architectural elements, including:
        • Seven main entrances
        • 37 octagonal bastions equipped with metal-shielded cannons
        • Mosques, mahals, and over 30 Islamic monuments
      • The entrance gate features a lofty dome painted in bright colors.

    About the Bahmani Kingdom

    • The Bahmani Kingdom was established in 1347 when Ala-ud-din Hassan Bahman Shan revolted against Muhammad Bin Tughlaq of the Delhi Sultanate.
    • This marked the creation of the first independent Islamic kingdom in South India.
    • The kingdom covered areas in present-day Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh.
    • Initially, the capital was set in Ahsanabad (Gulbarga) but was later moved to Bidar.
    • The Bahmani Kingdom had 14 sultans in total, with prominent rulers like Alauddin Bahman Shah, Muhammad Shah I, and Firoz Shah.
    • One of the kingdom’s notable statesmen, Mahmud Gawan, served as the Prime Minister for 23 years, from 1458 to 1481.
      • Under his guidance, the kingdom expanded its territories, including reclaiming Goa from the Vijayanagar Empire.
    • The Bahmani Kingdom began to decline around 1518 when Krishnadeva Raya of the Vijayanagar Empire defeated its last ruler, leading to the dissolution of the Bahmani rule in the region.

     

    PYQ:

    [2021] With reference to Indian history, which of the following statements is/are correct?​

    1. The Nizamat of Arcot emerged out of Hyderabad State.​

    2. The Mysore Kingdom emerged out of Vijayanangara Empire.​

    3. Rohilkhand Kingdom was formed out of the territories occupied by Ahmad Shah Durrani.​

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1 and 2 only​

    (b) 2 only​

    (c) 2 and 3 only​

    (d) 3 only ​

  • Indian Ocean Power Competition

    [pib] MAHASAGAR Initiative

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: MAHASAGAR Initiative

    Why in the News?

    • The Indian Navy conducted the 3rd edition of MAHASAGAR Initiative, a high-level virtual interaction led by the Chief of Naval Staff.
      • Theme: “Training Cooperation to Mitigate Common Maritime Security Challenges in IOR,” emphasizing the importance of training cooperation to address shared maritime challenges.

    About MAHASAGAR Initiative:

    Details
    About
    • MAHASAGAR stands for “Maritime Heads for Active (MAHA) Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR)”
      • SAGAR Doctrine was culminated out of PM’s vision in 2015.
    • Launched by Indian Navy in 2023 as part of India’s commitment to maritime security and regional cooperation.
    • Held bi-annually.
    Aims
    • Training Cooperation: Collaborative training efforts among IOR nations.
    • Capacity Building: Developing skilled manpower to address maritime security challenges.
    Members
    • Countries bordering the Indian Ocean, include Bangladesh, Comoros, Kenya, Madagascar, Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania.
    • Chief of Naval Staff of India leads the interactions.
    • Heads of Navies, Maritime Agencies, and Senior Leadership from each participating country.

     

    PYQ:

    [2017] Consider the following in respect of Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS):

    1. Inaugural IONS was held in India in 2015 under the chairmanship of the Indian Navy.

    2. IONS is a voluntary initiative that seeks to increase maritime cooperation among navies of the littoral states of the Indian Ocean Region.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

  • [pib] Commercial Courts (Amendment) Bill, 2024

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Commercial Courts (Amendment) Bill, 2024

    Why in the News?

    The Ministry of Law and Justice is inviting comments on the draft Commercial Courts (Amendment) Bill, 2024.

    The GoI has enacted and amended the Commercial Courts Act, 2015 to ensure that commercial cases are resolved quickly, effectively, and affordably.

    • Amendment History:
      • The original Commercial Courts Act was enacted in 2015.
      • Further amendments were made in 2018 to enhance the dispute resolution system.

    Key features and provisions of the Commercial Courts (Amendment) Bill, 2024:

    Details
    Purpose To enhance the speed and efficiency of resolving commercial disputes through specialized courts and procedures.
    Dedicated Commercial Courts Creation of Commercial Courts at the District level and High Court level to exclusively handle commercial disputes.
    Arbitration Matters Provisions to establish specific courts for handling arbitration-related disputes.
    Electronic Communication Includes provisions for the use of audio-video electronic means (video conferencing) for court proceedings, recording of evidence, and communications.
    Pre-Institution Mediation Mandatory mediation before filing a commercial suit, unless urgent relief is required, aimed at reducing litigation burden.
    Time-bound Decisions Judgment must be pronounced within 60 days of the conclusion of arguments. The judgment must be delivered to the parties via email or other electronic means.
    Injunction Applications Courts must dispose of injunction applications within 90 days of filing, with reasons provided for any delay.
    Infrastructure Provisions for setting up infrastructure like video conferencing facilities and other necessary resources for the functioning of Commercial Courts.
    Appeals Process New provisions for expediting appeals, requiring prior notice to the opposing party before filing.
    Witness Management Provisions to streamline the witness list format, requiring comprehensive details, including addresses and documents, and facilitating electronic submission.
    Execution Proceedings Execution proceedings must be disposed of within six months from the date of filing the application.